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Add Mid-Century Modern Style To Your Home In 2023

Minimalism this, traditional that— despite what popular design magazines would have you believe, there are more than these two design styles. One of our favorites is the Mid-Century Modern Style.

Mid-century modern-style TV stand near Newport News, VA

What is Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-century modern style is a design style that emerged in the 1940s and 1950s. Popularized by the work of architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who used clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and often used natural materials.

Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by its simplicity and functionality. The pieces were designed to be comfortable while fitting into any space— whether it be an apartment or house— and they were meant to last for decades without going out of style.

What Design Elements Embody Mid-Century Style

  • Furnishings emphasize function over ornament. Mid-century design uses simple geometric lines without frills or ornate details. This can be contrasted with the Victorian era's focus on style over function or even modernist plans that embrace minimalism as an aesthetic statement rather than practicality.
  • Strong accent colors are used sparingly to add interest to a room without overwhelming it (e.g., red in an otherwise black-and-white living room).
  • Natural woods like teak, rosewood, and oak are common materials for furniture pieces because they're sturdy yet affordable; metal frames were also popular because they were lighter than wood and could be manufactured more quickly during wartime production shortages--and still look sleek!

What Furniture To Use?

Colorful Furniture

As a key element of mid-century style is color splashes, incorporate it into your furniture! In a room with warm browns and green plants, create a splash with a blue velvet chair. Accenting any piece of furniture that is typically neutral can bring lovely color into a space.

Modernized Furniture

Even though it might be authentic, it's generally not a good idea to decorate with furniture that's ACTUALLY from the mid-century. TV stands, credenzas, side tables— the tables of yesteryear might look great, but they might not live up to the weight of the future. The last thing we want is your mid-century table splintering underneath your new TV.

Ideas

  • Use a sleek glass coffee table to play off of the clean lines and simple shapes found in many mid-century designs.
  • Add an accent chair with an angular backrest or seat cushions in geometric patterns for extra visual interest— and then pair it with an upholstered sofa for contrast!

Furniture Options from Unusual Designs

Mid-century style is all about using clean lines, simple shapes, and bold colors.

Work with furniture options from Unusual Designs to add this look to your room. They have an extensive collection of mid-century modern furniture that includes everything from tables and chairs to storage units and beds.

Conclusion

If you are looking to add a mid-century modern style to your home, we can help! We have various furniture options that will fit any room and budget. If you want more information on our products or services, please contact us today!